Research KAIST Graduate School of Engineering Biology

Biofoundry

BioFoundry

The Biofoundry is an automated Design–Build–Test–Learn (DBTL) platform that integrates research, education, and global collaboration in synthetic biology.

It serves as a core infrastructure for accelerating biotechnology innovation, performing three key functions: 1) Research Infrastructure, 2) Educational Platform, and 3) International Collaboration Hub.

Biofoundry-Based Education and Research

Overview

BioFoundry 개요 아이콘

End-to-end automation through the KAIST Biofoundry, integrating research and hands-on training across the four core domains of synthetic biology — design, construction, analysis, and automation/process engineering.

BioFoundry 개요 아이콘

Full-cycle DBTL experimentation and workflow execution

BioFoundry 개요 아이콘

Integration of the KAIST BioFAB with the Korea National Biofoundry Infrastructure (KRIBB)

BioFoundry 개요 아이콘

Practical, automation-based synthetic biology education using state-of-the-art instruments

DBTL Workflow (Hands-on Training)

DBTL cycle

Design

  • Data-driven design

    Data-driven design

  • AI-assisted design

    AI-assisted design

Build

  • High-throughput DNA synthesis

    High-throughput DNA synthesis

  • Automated assembly of genetic constructs

    Automated assembly of genetic constructs

Learn

  • Functional analysis and ultra-fast screening

    Functional analysis and ultra-fast screening

  • Validation using cell-based and cell-free systems

    Validation using cell-based and cell-free systems

Test

  • Integrating data to extract design insights, optimize performance

    Integrating data to extract design insights, optimize performance

  • refine biological systems

    refine biological systems

Core Infrastructure & Tools

KAIST BioFAB Advanced automation systems and high-throughput analytics for research and training

KAIST BioFAB KAIST BioFAB

KRIBB National Biofoundry (Beta Facility)

KRIBB National Biofoundry (Beta Facility) KRIBB National Biofoundry (Beta Facility)

K-BioFAB

The KAIST Biofoundry (K-BioFAB) is a cutting-edge research and education facility located on the 2nd floor of the KAIST Meta-Convergence Building I.

It is equipped with open-access automation and analytical systems that enable the complete DBTL cycle — from design and construction to testing and learning.

K-BioFAB supports both innovative R&D in advanced biotechnology and hands-on training in practical synthetic biology, serving as a model for next-generation biofoundry education and collaboration.

K-BioFAB Workstations and Equipment Overview

  • Colony Selection Workstation (Colony Picker, HIDEX, FLEX)

  • Transformation Workstation (OT-2, BTX ECM 830)

  • NGS Workstation (Zephyr G3, automatic PCR)

  • DNA Workstation (Janus G3, LabChip)

  • Multi Integration with Robotic Arm X-Arm 7 with linear motor

Category (Description)
Area [㎡]
Remarks [pyeong]

Research & Center Operations Room Workspace for domestic and international researchers participating in collaborative projects, and operation office for research centers

105

31.8

K-BioFAB Automation Facility Equipped with state-of-the-art open-access automation instruments for research and education (e.g., fully automated multi-dispensing systems, nano liquid handlers, automated plate-handling robotic arms, and more)

170.01

51.75

Biofoundry Process Facility Contains small-scale bioreactors and parallel microbial cultivation systems for process development and optimization

58.45

17.7

Biofoundry Design–Build–Analyze Facility Shared research space equipped with high-end analytical and fabrication instruments for collaborative biofoundry research (e.g., HPLC, cell sorter, microplate reader, genome analyzer, etc.)

184.38

55.69

Global Synthetic Biology Center Dedicated space for international collaboration and joint research with overseas partners

86.4

26.2

Total Area

604.24

183.14